New Hampshire Soap Box Derby

New Hampshire Soap Box Derby Soap Box Derby car racing in New Hampshire Since 1939, the NHSBD has held youth racing events that are open to boys and girls between the ages of 7 through 17.

Contestants build then race gravity powered cars in three classes: Stock, Super Stock and Masters. Residence in the State of New Hampshire can participate in the Annual Local Race. The winning racer in each of the classes qualifies to represent NH in Akron, OH to compete for scholarships and merchandise prizes in the Annual National Soap Box Derby Championship held each July. The 70th Annual New H

ampshire Soap Box Derby was held Sunday, June 8, 2013, in Dover, NH on Broadway at the corner of Oak Street. In Soap Box Derby drivers compete side by side on a gentle sloping track or street blocked from automobile traffic. In fairness, drivers race against each other twice per heat, switching lanes and performing a swap of their wheels. The overall time difference between the two finishers crossing the finish line determines the winner. Races are performed in a series of heats in a single or double elimination manner (depending on the type of event). Courses average about 500 ft. in length with races often won in fractions of a second. In addition, Rally races are held throughout the spring, summer, and fall at various locations in the State of New Hampshire and as well as the United States. Rally racers compete Region wide to accumulate All-American Soap Box Derby Rally Points which potentially earns them the right to compete in the All-American’s World Rally Championship held during the same week in July. This is a unique program in that it encourages close parent-child activities while building and racing the car. The construction of the gravity race car reinforces the importance of setting and completing goals while developing traits such as self-confidence, perseverance and craftsmanship. The parent/child relationship is fostered as parents teach their children the proper use of tools. The youth is encouraged to do as much of the work as their level permits.

Happy Holidays to Region X!
12/24/2025

Happy Holidays to Region X!

Another opportunity to Rally Race in New Engalnd is coming on October 25 & 26.The Meriden, CT Halloween Rally is just a ...
10/07/2025

Another opportunity to Rally Race in New Engalnd is coming on October 25 & 26.

The Meriden, CT Halloween Rally is just a couple weeks away. There is still room available in the field for a fun 4-race weekend in a revitalized derby community.

https://meriden.soapboxderby.org/event/meriden-2025-halloween-rally-weekend/

The unique hill in a historic Connecticut park is one you just have to experience. The autumn foliage, a 125 year old castle, and a little turn to get you through the finish line 🏁

There will be prizes for best costume, best decorated pit, and even food trucks that include the famous New Haven pizza. 🍕

10/07/2025
Photos from the Fall Rally wwekend courtesy of Clay Moore
10/07/2025

Photos from the Fall Rally wwekend courtesy of Clay Moore

10/05/2025

Some videos that illustrate the momentum gained in the few feet of the race by the first cone out. See comments for more videos.

10/05/2025

Stock division racing

Some photos from the start of our racing day.
10/05/2025

Some photos from the start of our racing day.

10/05/2025

Racing has started for the day.

Racing action today.
10/04/2025

Racing action today.

Setup of the track from this afternoon.
10/03/2025

Setup of the track from this afternoon.

10/03/2025

Thanks to the New England Racing Museum for hosting us during their car show and getting the news out to new racers!

Address

Dover, NH
03820

Telephone

(603) 742-5833

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when New Hampshire Soap Box Derby posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Our Story

Since 1939, the NHSBD has hosted youth racing events that are open to boys and girls between the ages of 7 through 20. Contestants build then race gravity powered cars in three classes: Stock, Super Stock and Masters. Residence in the State of New Hampshire can participate in the Annual Local Race. The winning racer in each of the classes qualifies to represent NH in Akron, OH to compete for scholarships and merchandise prizes in the Annual National Soap Box Derby Championship held each July. The 70th Annual New Hampshire Soap Box Derby was held Sunday, June 8, 2013, in Dover, NH on Broadway at the corner of Oak Street. In Soap Box Derby drivers compete side by side on a gentle sloping track or street blocked from automobile traffic. In fairness, drivers race against each other twice per heat, switching lanes and performing a swap of their wheels. The overall time difference between the two finishers crossing the finish line determines the winner. Races are performed in a series of heats in a single or double elimination manner (depending on the type of event). Courses average about 500 ft. in length with races often won in fractions of a second. In addition, Rally races are held throughout the spring, summer, and fall at various locations in the State of New Hampshire and as well as the United States. Rally racers compete Region wide to accumulate All-American Soap Box Derby Rally Points which potentially earns them the right to compete in the All-American’s World Rally Championship held during the same week in July. This is a unique program in that it encourages close parent-child activities while building and racing the car. The construction of the gravity race car reinforces the importance of setting and completing goals while developing traits such as self-confidence, perseverance and craftsmanship. The parent/child relationship is fostered as parents teach their children the proper use of tools. The youth is encouraged to do as much of the work as their level permits.